Theft

Criminal Defense Attorneys Fighting Theft Charges

From a teen shoplifting a pair of jeans from a department store to theft of a luxury automobile, larceny and theft charges are very serious. You might be facing a charge of theft or larceny due to a momentary lapse in judgment or a childish mistake, or a misunderstanding or misidentification , but regardless the consequences for a conviction are severe. You can be subject to substantial fines and up to a year in jail even if the item stolen is valued at less than $500. The punishment escalates greatly for subsequent or larger offenses. When you consider the ramifications of a theft, burglary or any form of stealing, it is imperative that you do not cut corners when hiring an attorney to defend you. Our Theft Attorneys know the larceny and theft laws and will use our experience and legal skills to defend you and your rights.

Larceny and Theft Law

Law defines larceny as “the taking of personal property accomplished by fraud or stealth, and with intent to deprive another thereof.” This is a flexible definition that allows prosecutors significant leeway while bringing charges for acts of stealing, robbery or burglary. It can encompass the basic theft of an item, such as shoplifting, or a more complicated “con man” scheme where someone fraudulently takes something of property.

The important thing you need to know is that there is no such thing as a petty theft crime. No matter how inexpensive an item involved in theft or larceny is, the consequences are serious and can affect you for the rest of your life. In addition to jail time and a fine, having a theft conviction on your record can make it far more difficult for to obtain employment.

Larceny is separated into categories of escalating seriousness based on the dollar amount of the property illegally taken. “Petit larceny” occurs when the value of the property is less than $500, and “grand larceny” is when the value is greater than $500. The most important distinction between the two is that grand larceny is a felony and can result in a prison term of up to five years.

Contact Capable Criminal Defense Lawyers for your Theft Charge

If you or a loved one is facing a larceny or theft charge or is being investigated for a crime, do not hesitate to Contact Us today at (800) 409-1915.